Watch Miami Marlins’ Daniel Castano Get Hit in the Head by 104MPH Line Drive (That’s Gotta Hurt)

If we were Daniel Castano, we’d be considering a career change right about now. That’s because the Miami Marlins pitcher took a baseball to the head at the speed of 104 mph. It was Cincinnati Reds third baseman Donovan Solano’s line drive that did the damage during the teams’ first inning during a game last week.

The ball whacked Castano’s face violently, then ricocheted to Marlins third baseman Joey Wendle. Meanwhile, Castano hit the ground on his knees and cradled his injured noggin. He appeared to be shaking and even crying.

Marlins manager Don Mattingly and catcher Jacob Stallings were first on the mound to see how the 27-year-old was doing. Castano managed to stand and fans applauded as he walked off the field.

“I’m not sure what happened,” Castano, who had a bandaged head, told reporters after the game according to CNN. “I was down for a second. I was a little out of it. When I woke up, I asked, ‘What happened?’ I’m much better now. I’m a little bit tired, but I’ll be all right.”

Mattingly credited the bill of Castano’s cap with lessening the blow, even if only slightly, according to ESPN.

“It’s a little bit scary,” Mattingly said. “Your biggest fear is damage. He’s about as good as could be expected.”

The Marlins’ communication department later released this update in a tweet: “LHP Daniel Castano exited today’s game with a forehead contusion with mild concussion. He will be evaluated further.”

Castano himself also shared a heartfelt statement on social media:

“Thank you for everyone for the love, support, and prayers. I’m doing well and it could have been a lot worse,” he said. “Beyond thankful for the efficiency and kindness of my coaches, trainers, teammates and Solano, what was shown to me today truly goes beyond the game. What a sobering reminder on the brevity of life, thankful to have my assurance in Christ. Romans 8:28.”

Scary occupational hazards aside, the Marlins rallied and eventually won the game 7-6.

Cover Photo: Kirk Irwin / Stringer (Getty Images)